Machinery Lubrication magazine published by Noria Corporation
Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1103301
Creating a Culture of Lubrication Excellence and Reliability-Centered Maintenance An in-depth look at Ingredion Winston-Salem, winner of the 2017 John R. Battle Award COVER STORY By Natalie Blythe, Noria Corporation As the recipient of the International Council for Machinery Lubrication's 2017 John R. Battle Award, Ingredion (Winston-Salem) underwent a complete trans- formation in its lubricant storage and handling practices, resulting in the company creating a world-class lubrication program. Following is the story of the Winston-Salem facility and its journey to creating a culture of lubrication excellence and reliability-centered maintenance. History Nestled in the hills of North Carolina, the Ingredion facility in Winston-Salem was built in 1981 and produces starch and syrups from corn. e plant employs approximately 100 full-time Ingredion employees and contractors. A unique feature of the facility is its use of self-directed work groups, which empowers the employees to do what is necessary to make the plant run. "ere's a lot of ownership at this facility and in everything we do," said Jeff Mohn, maintenance manager. "We have contractors with us for 30-plus years, and you don't stay a contractor that long unless you really love where you are and what you are doing. Ingre- dion is a great place to work." The Road to Lubrication Excellence e Winston-Salem facility's journey began in January 2009 with a lubrication program assessment by Noria. After the findings of the initial assessment, Ingredion learned a great deal about how to make lubrication process improvements. "I was on the mechanical side and went on the tour with Noria in 2009," said George Warwick, senior maintenance instrument lead. "You're thinking that you're doing it right, but you're not. When Noria gave us their final report, it was like a helping hand reaching out." 8 | March - April 2019 | www . machinerylubrication.com